Spring 2015
To Serve and Protect: Toronto Police
Officers Lend a Helping Hand
In recent months, one of Community Living Toronto’s programs in the
Scarborough region had an issue with their building being vandalized
with graffiti. Frustrated with the continuous problem and unable to
keep up with the vandalism, Program Supervisor Ryan Hodgson
contacted the 43rd Division of the Toronto Police for their suggestions
on how to deal with the issue.
Inside You’ll Find








To Serve and Protect
A Message from the
President and CEO
Choices Change Lives
Investing in Futures
Community Rocks
Meeting Needs
Celebrating Donors
Save the Date!
www.communitylivingtoronto.ca
The Police Officers at Toronto’s 43rd Division went to work
immediately creating an environmental design audit and coming up
with a number of helpful solutions. One of them included
commissioning an artist to paint the outdoor walls of the Scarborough
building with the hope that other street artists would respect the code
of conduct between taggers and no longer vandalize the property.
Thanks to this idea and the help of the Police Officers, the City of
Toronto is currently considering funding a small project in partnership
with 43 Division. If successful, this initiative could create a number of
wonderful opportunities, including employing local Scarborough artists
and vendors to collaborate with children and artists supported by
Community Living Toronto. This would help reflect the work of the
Association, as well showcase the incredible artistic talents of some of
the individuals Community Living Toronto supports. We are very
excited about the possible outcome of this initiative and will continue
to update you on our progress!
However, this project is not the only initiative the 43rd Division of the
Toronto Police has become involved with at Community Living
Toronto. This past December, after becoming aware of the various
services and supports Community Living Toronto offers, Police Officers
at 43 Division decided to host a holiday luncheon and turkey drive at
our Children’s Respite Centre.
Continued on page 3
COMMUNITY LIVING TORONTO • 1
From the PRESIDENT & CEO
From Police Officers working hard in ensuring our
safety and security, to the many donors we
recognize at our annual stewardship event, our
members and community partners offer a great
deal of support to the individuals supported by
Community Living Toronto.
As you flip through the pages of this issue of
Donor Dollars, you will see the tremendous
impact you have on the lives of individuals with
an intellectual disability, and you will read about
the incredible ways our donors are showing their
commitment, compassion and creativity in
enhancing the lives of so many people.
Your donations are crucial in ensuring each individual supported by our Association can lead a fulfilling life
meaningful to them. From Dominique’s cottage adventure to Karen and Krystal sharing their very own home,
you are helping people with an intellectual disability have the opportunity to fully immerse in their
communities; through learning, exploring, and participating.
If you would like more information on the services and supports Community Living Toronto offers, as well as
some of the programs and initiatives featured in this issue of Donor Dollars, visit our website at:
www.communitylivingtoronto.ca.
Thank you so much for your incredible generosity.
David Layton
President
Garry Pruden
Chief Executive Officer
Our Mission
Community Living Toronto changes the lives of people with an intellectual disability by giving them a voice,
and supporting their choices where they live, learn, work and play.
COMMUNITY LIVING TORONTO • 2
Lending a HELPING HAND
continued from page 1
Instead of holding their annual Kris Kringle gift exchange, the Police Officers used the money they would
normally spend on each other to purchase gifts for children who attend our respite program. On December 22, a
group of very eager and excited children met a few of their heroes from 43 Division who came bearing presents.
The luncheon served as a lovely get together to reflect on the incredible community friendship and support we
have received from the Police Officers at 43 Division last year. Below are some of the photos taken during the
luncheon. We’d like to thank the Police Officers at 43 Division for their incredible work in the community and
their continuous support of Community Living Toronto.
Stay Connected
Donor Dollars and all our publications can be found online at http://www.communitylivingtoronto.ca , so you
can share them with a friend.
COMMUNITY LIVING TORONTO • 3
Choices CHANGE LIVES
Through the Choices that can Changes Lives Fund, small grants provide big opportunities. Over the last few
years, we’ve seen just how much of a difference these grants have made—especially for families who
sometimes just need a little boost to get a break from daily stresses;
Sometimes it just helps to connect with family to
energize and focus.
This past summer, with the help of the Choices Fund, the Dias
family were able to cover the cost of a support
worker to join them on a family vacation to a cottage.
Dominique, family members and her support worker
enjoying a breezy day on the beach.
Dominique requires 24 hour care and without the additional
help, the family would not have been able to be together.
The grant received provided the family with a much needed
break which included Dominique. It also provided Dominique
the opportunity to participate in all the activities like going to
the beach, taking a hike and just hanging out by the camp fire.
This was a much needed vacation and the family was
thrilled that Dominique could be included.
For Anthony, a grant from the Choices Fund provided him with
the opportunity to connect with family and visit with his 94
year old grandmother in Trinidad.
This trip had been a goal of Anthony’s for some time. He had
been saving and planning for the trip but still didn’t have
quite enough for the airfare. Given his grandmother’s age, he
wasn’t sure if he was ever going to be able to see her again.
This small grant has invigorated Anthony! He came back ready
to take on the world. With the help of his support worker,
Anthony found employment and went back to school. Who
knew that the price of a plane ticket could have such an
amazing impact!
Anthony and his grandmother enjoying their time
together.
Changing Lives
The Choices that can Change Lives Fund provides small grants of up to $1,000 that offer big opportunities.
With the help of donors we are now able to accept applications two times per year!
For more information or to make a gift contact Sylvie Labrosse 647.729.1180
or visit www.choiceschangelives.ca
COMMUNITY LIVING TORONTO • 4
Investing in FUTURES
A Home of Their Own
This year, LIGHTS is celebrating five years
since its launch. Feeling proud of many
accomplishments in these few short years, we
can’t help but feel proudest when LIGHTS
recipients complete their final phase and find a
home to call their own. Most recently, this
incredible achievement occurred to Karen and
Krystal.
Having casually known each other through the
Developmental Services Sector, Karen and
Krystal’s mothers - Margaret and
Madeleine - came up with the plan to have
their daughters move in together at a LIGHTS
parent networking meeting where they both
discovered both Karen and Krystal were ready for independent living.
After many facilitated meetings and planning sessions, the young
women decided they wanted a mentor roommate to help them navigate this
huge step to independence. They found that in Maggie, a 24 year old
Masters student from York University. The three women began their
apartment hunt immediately, and It wasn’t long until they found their
perfect home; a two-floor duplex apartment on the Danforth.
With the guidance of Maggie, all three ladies conduct weekly household
meetings that include the division of chores and dinner preparation
discussions. Pub night planning sessions and downtime activities are also
regularly scheduled in, and are a favourite!
LIGHTS Advisory Board
Chair
Mary Pat Armstrong
Doug Biggar
Adam Blinick
Ian Brown
John Clark
Ann Doritty
Henry Eaton
Chris Lang
Hugh Mackenzie
Garry Pruden
David Stewart
Daniel Sullivan
Geoff Wilson
Both Karen and Krystal, who recently held a housewarming party to show
off their beautiful new home, are extremely excited and proud of their
recent transition; “I don’t think my dream to move out would ever have
happened without LIGHTS. I love it here.” Karen said. Meanwhile, Krystal,
who had been slightly hesitant about moving out is adjusting very well to
her independence; “It felt scary to leave home and packing up made me
emotional,” she says, “But it feels much better without my mother around always giving me reminders. And
I’m doings things differently now.” Congratulations Karen, Krystal, and Maggie!
Filling the Gap
A gift to LIGHTS will help provide funding for those in need and seeking a home of their own.
For more information visit www.LIGHTS.to
COMMUNITY LIVING TORONTO • 5
Community ROCKS
Our Community Truly Rocks—thank you!
This past November, Community Living Toronto staff, members, donors and friends
filled the Queen Elizabeth Theatre for a Party with a Purpose!
Hosted by Ben Mulroney and featuring performances by Canadian legends Trooper, spoken word artist Aria
Tesolin, musicians The Good Acoustics and Dj Raptor Marc, the Canadiana-themed party turned out to be a huge
success raising over $570,000. The money raised will help us reach out and provide supports to even more
individuals by providing supports and services which will include helping youth make the transition from school
to employment and community activities, as well as helping parents plan for their child’s safe and supported
future.
Our sincere thanks to everyone who came out, as well as the numerous sponsors who made this evening
possible. A complete listing can be found on: www.communityrocks.ca
COMMUNITY LIVING TORONTO • 6
Caring COMMUNITIES
Presenting Sponsor
Torys LLP
Community Visionary
TD Bank Group
Community Builder
CIBC
Dream
Seventh Heaven Event
Catering
Community Collaborator
Algoma Central
Corporation
Aon Hewitt
Beck Taxi Limited
Bridgehouse Asset
Managers
Burgundy Asset
Management Ltd.
Celestica
Economic Investment Trust
Empire Life
E-L Financial Corporation
Limited
Tom Hofstedter
Scotiabank
State Street
The BTS Network
The Jackman Family
Travelers Canada
United Corporations
Limited
Community Celebrator
Bennett Jones LLP
BMO Capital Markets
BMO Financial Group
Deloitte
W. Robert & Gail
Farquharson
FCT - Robert Clarke
First National Financial LP
Mark Johnson & Susan
Marshall
KPMG
Miller Thomson LLP
Morgan Meighen &
Associates Ltd.
Morguard
Pier 21 Asset Management
Inc.
PwC Canada
Don Roger
TD Securities Inc.
The Badeau Family
The Figueiredo Family
David Wilson
Community Member
Agellan Capital Partners
Inc.
Bruce & Andrea Alexander
Bee-Clean Building
Maintenance
Blake, Cassels & Graydon
LLP
Andre & Shirley Desroches
Evans Investment Counsel
HUB International HKMB
Intact Insurance Company
Jarislowsky, Fraser Limited
Maynards
Oliver Murray
Nelson Arthur Hyland
Foundation
RBC Foundation
RBC PH&N
Investment Counsel
Meredith & William
Saunderson
Sharp Electronics of
Canada
Chris & Geraldine Stringer
Community Supporter
Jenny Armstrong
Robert & Mary Pat
Armstrong
Aviva Canada Inc.
Beayni Group Ltd.
Angela Bradley & Louis
Thomas
June Chiu
Gerry & Rina D’Amico
Ms. Lisa A. Ellis
K-Line Maintenance and
Construction Limited
Law Studio Professional
Corporation
Lipman, Zener & Waxman
LLP
Peggy & Don Logie
Dawn & Tom Lunan
Ms. Sue Lynch
Carol & John Lynde
MacDonald Group
Frances MacNeil
Northbridge Insurance
Mr. Gary R. Ouellette
Flavian & Lorna Pinto
PooranLaw Professional
Corporation
Garry & Linda Pruden
Bruce Rivers
Agnes Samler
Brad Saunders
Spacca Insurance Brokers
Ltd.
Standard Life
The Layton Family
The Salden Foundation
John Tory & Barbara
Hackett
E. Diane Turner
Peter & Ethel Wakayama
Donors
BeaverTails Pastry
Bruce Fair
Industrial Alliance
Insurance & Financial
Services Inc.
Kernels Popcorn
Krispy Kreme
Sylvie Labrosse
Linden Grove Flowers
Souvenir Canada Inc.
Ticket Window Inc.
Toronto Tees
Official Media Sponsor
Toronto Star
Official Wine Sponsor
The Grange of Prince
Edward Estate
Official Beer Sponsor
Waterloo Brewing
Company
Official Photographer
Louis Thomas
Official Printing Sponsor
Kendall Printing Company
Limited
Special Thanks
Jason Maher of Shiny Paper
for communityrocks.ca
Community Rocks
Community Rocks is Community Living Toronto’s signature fundraising event that takes place every two years.
Our next party with a purpose will take place in 2016. For information or inquiries contact Sylvie Labrosse at
647-729-1180 or [email protected]
Visit www.communityrocks.ca for ongoing event updates
COMMUNITY LIVING TORONTO • 7
Party with a PURPOSE
We partied the night away!
Check out more photos from the evening at: www.communityrocks.ca
Did you know?
If you can’t use your theatre or sporting event tickets you can donate them to Community Living Toronto.
We may be able to find an individual in support who can use them or use them as part of a special event
auction or raffle.
For further information contact Elliott Port at 647.729.1255 or [email protected].
COMMUNITY LIVING TORONTO • 8
Meeting NEEDS
Campaign Kick-off
To meet the needs of individuals of all ages and abilities, modernization
projects are being undertaken at Community Living Toronto sites across the City.
In Etobicoke, we are working on 3 year, $350,000 fundraising campaign that will
help renovate the Employment Training Services (ETS) site located on Judson
Street. Recently launched, the campaign has already raised over $20,000, with a
plan that will include opportunities for donors at all levels to be involved.
Funds raised as part of this exciting campaign will help create a more inclusive and
welcoming space for the individuals who currently take part in ETS programs and
activities, all while thinking of future generations. Plans includes a fully
accessible washrooms and kitchen, a new computer lab and internet cafe, sports and
activities area, arts and crafts centre, a sensory room and so much more!
Watch out for more details and news about our Open House this Spring! To find out
more about this project, contact Sylvie Labrosse, Manager, Fundraising at
647-729-1180 or [email protected], or Brad Saunders, Regional Executive
Director, Etobicoke/North York at 647-729-0466 or [email protected]
A Musical Legacy
Giving comes in so many ways. This past year, our Gooderham
site was the beneficiary of a wonderful piano left to us as part
of an estate.
The family wanted it to go to a good home where it would go on
to entertain for years to come. Seemed fitting, given that the
deceased’s maiden name was Gooderham.
Our many thanks to this wonderful family—your gift is bringing
joy!
Tribute Gifts
Tribute gifts are a great way to mark a special occasion, holiday or simply to say thanks. They are also a
meaningful way to commemorate the life of a loved one. And when you make a gift in honour of a friend or
loved one, we will send an acknowledgement card to the recipient.
Contact Maryfelix Baldelomar at 647.729.1181 to find out how.
COMMUNITY LIVING TORONTO • 9
Celebrating our DONORS
Each fall, we celebrate the incredible generosity of the individuals, foundations and corporate partners who are
committed to improving the lives of people with an intellectual disability and their families.
Through their ongoing contributions, they have helped create some of the most innovative opportunities for so
many individuals supported by Community Living Toronto.
This past October at the top of the TD Tower overlooking Lake Ontario (home of Torys LLP), we recognized the
outstanding contributions of five of our closest allies at our Donor Celebration Evening:
Chris and Geraldine Stringer have been supporters of
Community Living Toronto since 2006. As Past President of
our Association, Chris remains incredibly dedicated as a
member of our Finance and Audit Committee, while
Geraldine is a member of the Choices that can Change
Lives Advisory Group. Geraldine also volunteers her time
at our Lawson site, providing cooking lessons for
individuals in service who are interested in improving
their kitchen skills.
Left to right: Lisa Tuckwell presenting a special token
to Chris and Geraldine
The Canadian Women’s Foundation has played an instrumental
role in the success ‘Safety Includes Me’, a community safety
initiative lead by Community Living Toronto’s Adult Protective
Service Workers. This special workshop helps women living with an
intellectual disability to understand and practice safe choices
within their everyday life. Realizing the importance of this
initiative, the Canadian Women’s Foundation has twice funded the
Left to right: Community Living Toronto, CEO,
workshop and thanks to their generosity, over 100 women have
Garry Pruden, Keetha Mercer, Manager, Violence
taken part!
Prevention at the Canadian Women’s Foundation
and Community Living Toronto Board President,
David Layton
Did you know?
If you can’t use your theatre or sporting event tickets you can donate them to Community Living Toronto.
We may be able to find an individual in support who can use them or use them as part of a special event
auction or raffle.
For further information contact Elliott Port at 647.729.1255 or [email protected].
COMMUNITY LIVING TORONTO • 10
Seventh Heaven Event Catering is the catering
company behind the delicious food and amazing
ambiance at Community Rocks. They first came on
board as our caterers at a 2009 photography
exhibit, and quickly became an integral part of our
Community Living Toronto family. Ed and his team
go above and beyond the call of a caterer, as
volunteers and donors and sponsors of many of our
events including the Annual Picnic and Community
Rocks.
Left to right: Garry Pruden, The Spano brothers (Ed, Gino and Paul)
are all smiles as they receive their award, Community Rocks Chair,
Mark Johnson and David Layton
A partner at Torys LLP, Don Roger has been providing legal advice to
Community Living Toronto since the beginning of his career, over 34 years
ago. He has fully immersed himself into the Community Living Toronto
family, lending his expertise to our cause. As the Sponsorship Chair of
Community Rocks, Don helped raise over $570,000 this past year—a
tremendous achievement. Most recently, Don accepted a role as a member of
our Patron’s Council.
Aon Hewitt is Community Living Toronto’s
benefits and pension consultants. They are also
passionate about supporting organizations where
they do business. For more than 10 years, we have
been able to count on their generosity on a variety
of projects, including their sponsorship of the
Shadow Lake Centre Golf Tournament and
Community Rocks.
Left to right: Aon Hewitt’s Carol O’Leary, Lisa Tuckwell, Denise
Fernandes and Kent Lum
Are you a BMO MasterCard holder? Well with ChangeIt you can automatically round up
your purchases and donate the difference to Community Living Toronto right at the
checkout! Sign up with your existing BMO MasterCard today at ChangeIt.com.
For more information please contact Elliott Port on 647.729.1255 or at
[email protected].
COMMUNITY LIVING TORONTO • 11
Save the DATE!
Contact US
COMMUNITY LIVING TORONTO
PUBLIC RELATIONS AND
FUNDRAISING
20 Spadina Road, Toronto, ON M5R 2S7
416.968.0650
[email protected]
facebook.com/CLToronto
www.communitylivingtoronto.ca
twitter.com/CLToronto
Charitable Number 10769 4143 RR0001
COMMUNITY LIVING TORONTO • 12